GS Prelims 10 Years' Papers: Insights & Strategy MODERN INDIAN

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GS Prelims 10 Years’ Papers: Insights & Strategy

MODERN INDIAN HISTORY

• 10 questions so far • Max. on 1919 Act • Factual and fundamental

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Q1. In the context of Indian history, the principle of „Dyarchy (diarchy)‟ refers to (2017) (a) Division of the central legislature into two houses. (b) Introductions of double government i.e., Central and Statement governments. (c) Having two sets of rulers; one in London and another in Delhi. (d) Division of the subjects delegated to the provinces into two categories.

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Q2. The Montague-Chelmsford Proposals were related to (2016) (a) social reforms (b) educational reforms (c) reforms in police administration (d) constitutional reforms

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Q3. The Government of India Act of 1919 clearly defined(2015) (a) The separation of power between the judiciary and the legislature. (b) The jurisdiction of the central and provincial governments. (c) The powers of the Secretary of State for India and the Viceroy (d) None of the above

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Q4. The people of India agitated against the arrival of Simon Commission because (2013) (a) Indians never wanted the review of the working of the Act of 1919 (b) Simon Commission recommended the abolition of Dyarchy (Diarchy) in the Provinces (c) There was no Indian member in the Simon Commission (d) The Simon Commission suggested the partition of the country

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Q5. Which of the following is/are the principal feature(s) of the Government of India Act, 1919?(2012) 1. Introduction of diarchy in the executive government of the provinces. 2. Introduction of separate communal electorates for Muslims. 3. Devolution of legislative authority by the centre to the provinces. Select the correct answer using the codes given below: (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Q6. With reference to the period of Indian freedom struggle, which of the following was/were recommended by the Nehru report?(2011) 1. Complete Independence for India. 2. Joint electorates for reservation of seats for minorities 3. Provision of fundamental right for the people of India in the constitution. Select the correct answer using the codes given below: (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Q7. With reference to Simon Commission‟s recommendations, which one of the following statements is correct?(2010) (a) It recommended the replacement of diarchy with responsible government in the provinces (b) It proposed the setting up of inter-provincial council under the Home Department (c) It suggested the abolition of bicameral legislature at the Centre (d) It recommended the creation of Indian Police Service with a provision for increased pay and allowances for British recruits as compared to Indian recruits

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert About GOI 1919 Act • BACKGROUND- 1ST World War - Gandhi Ji had requested the country to help the allies in war. Indian public was expecting that they would also get democratic reforms.

• Samuel Montagu is known to have put a statement in the British Cabinet which asked for “gradual development of free institutions in India with a view to ultimate self-government” and he declared what is now known as Montagu Declaration.

• The Montagu declaration : “Increasing association of Indians in every branch of the administration and the gradual development of self-governing institutions with a view to the progressive realization of responsible government in India as an integral part of the British Empire“.

• The key phrase “ultimate self-government” was removed but, still the another key phrase “responsible government” in this statement gave the inference for the first time that rulers are answerable to the public.

• Moderates declared this as Magna Carta of India”.

• The date was 20 August 1917 and it is also known as “August Declaration”

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Features of the 1919 Act • Introduction of Diarchy at the PROVINCES ie. classification of the central and provincial subjects. The provincial subjects were divided into two groups: One was reserved subjects (essential areas of law enforcement such as justice, police, revenue) were kept with the Governor and transferred subjects(public health, public works, education etc.)were kept with the Indian Ministers. This division of subjects was basically what they meant by introducing the Diarchy.

• It introduced, for the first time, bicameralism and direct elections in the country. Thus, the Indian Legislative Council was replaced by a bicameral legislature consisting of an Upper House (Council of State) and a Lower House (Legislative Assembly). The majority of members of both the Houses were chosen by direct election.

• It required that the three of the six members of the Viceroy‟s executive Council (other than the commander-in-chief) were to be Indian.

• It extended the principle of communal representation by providing separate electorates for Sikhs, Indian Christians, Anglo-Indians and Europeans.

• It granted franchise to a limited number of people on the basis of property, tax or education.

• It created a new office of the High Commissioner for India in London and transferred to him some of the functions hitherto performed by the Secretary of State for India.

• It provided for the establishment of a public service commission. Hence, a Central Public Service Commission was set up in 1926 for recruiting civil servants.

• It separated, for the first time, provincial budgets from the Central budget and authorised the provincial legislatures to enact their budgets.

• It provided for the appointment of a statutory commission to inquire into and report on its working after ten years of its coming into force.

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Simon Commission : In November 1927 itself (i.e., 2 years before the schedule), the British Government announced the appointment a seven-member statutory commission under the chairmanship of Sir John Simon to report on the condition of India under its new Constitution. • All the members of the commission were British and hence, all the parties boycotted the commission except Justice party (Madras) and Unionist Party (Punjab) • The commission submitted its report in 1930 and recommended the abolition of dyarchy, extension of responsible government in the provinces, establishment of a federation of British India and princely states, continuation of communal electorate and so on. • To consider the proposals of the commission, the British Government convened three round table conferences of the representatives of the British Government, British India and Indian princely states. • On the basis of these discussions, a „White Paper on Consitutional Reforms‟ was prepared and submitted for the consideration of the Joint Select Committee of the British Parliament. • The recommendations of this committee were incorporated(with certain changes) in the next Government of Inida Act of 1935. • Lala Lajpat Rai died due to lathi charge in the Anti-Simon Commission protests.

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Q8. What was/were the object/objects of Queen Victoria's Proclamation (1858)?(2014) 1. To disclaim any intention to annex Indian States 2. To place the Indian administration under the British Crown. 3. To regulate East India Company's trade with India Select the correct answer using the code given below. (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert 1858 Act/Queen‟s Proclamation/ Act for the Good Government of India Background: The growing resentment in England against the Company rule ended with the mutiny of 1857. Even though the mutiny was suppressed but it sent ripples of fear to London and convinced the British that administration of the India must be taken over by the Crown. Features of 1858 Act • abolished the company rule, abolished the Court of directors and abolished the Board of control. This act abolished the Dual Government introduced by the Pitt‟s India act. • The principle of Doctrine of Lapse was withdrawn, liberty was given to Indian rulers subject to British suzerainty and it also opened some door for Indians in Government services. • It changed the designation of the Governor-General of India to that of Viceroy of India. He (viceroy) was the direct representative of the British Crown in India. Lord Canning thus became the first Viceroy of India. • The act provided the Crown will govern India directly through a Secretary of State for India, who was to exercise the powers which were being enjoyed by the Court of Directors and Board of control. • The office of secretary of state was vested with complete authority and control over Indian administration, thus he was now the political head of the India. He was also a member of the British cabinet and was responsible ultimately to the British Parliament. Lord Stanley was made first Secretary of state for India. • It established a 15-member Council of India to assist the secretary of state for India. The council was an advisory body. The secretary of state was made the chairman of the council.

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Q9. Consider the following statements (2009) 1. The discussions in the Third Round Table Conference eventually led to the passing of the Government of India Act of 1935. 2. The Government of India Act of 1935 provided for the establishment of an All India Federation to be based on a Union of the provinces of British India and the Princely States. Which of the above statements is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert GOI 1935,Act • The outcome of the Third Round Table conference was the 'White Paper” issued by the Government. On the basis of this paper, the Government of India Act 1935 was to be passed.

• Round Table Conferences (1930–32) were a series of meetings in three sessions called by the British government to consider the future constitution of India. The conference resulted from a review of the Government of India Act of 1919, undertaken in 1927 by the Simon Commission, whose report was published in 1930. The conference was held in London.

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Mountbatten Plan/Plan Balkan/India Independence Act, 1947 Background-  Atlee‟s Declaration aka February Declaration: On February 20, 1947, the British Prime Minister Clement Atlee declared that the British rule in India would end by June 30,1948; after which the power would be transferred to responsible Indian hands.  This announcement was followed by the agitation by the Muslim League demanding partition of the country.  Again on June 3, 1947, the British Government made it clear that any Constitution framed by the Constituent Assembly of India (formed in 1946) cannot apply to those parts of the country which were unwilling to accept it.  On the same day (June 3, 1947), Lord Mountbatten, the viceroy of India, put forth the partition plan, known as the Mountbatten Plan.  The plan was accepted by the Congress and the Muslim League.  Immediate effect was given to the plan by enacting the Indian Independence Act (1947).

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Salient features : • Provided for two dominion states : India and Pakistan • Boundaries between the two dominion states were to be determined by a Boundary Commission which was headed by Sir Cyril Radcliff. • Provided for partition of Punjab & Bengal and separate boundary commissions to demarcate the boundaries between them. • Pakistan was to comprise the West Punjab, East Bengal, Territories of the Sind, North West frontier provinces, Sylhet divisions of Assam, Bhawalpur, khairpur, Baluchistan and 8 other princely states of Baluchistan. • The authority of the British Crown over the princely states ceased and they were free to join either India or Pakistan or remain independent. • Both the dominions of India and Pakistan were to have Governor Generals to be appointed by the British King.The act also provided for a common Governor general if both of them agreed.

• For the time being till the constitution was made, both of them would be governed in accordance with the Government of India act 1935.

• Any modification or omission could be done by the Governor General.

• British Government would not continue any control on any dominion.

• The Governor general was invested with adequate powers until March 1948 to issue orders for effective implementation of the provisions of the Indian independence act 1947.

• Those civil servants who had been appointed before the August 15, 1947, will continue in service with same privileges.

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Q10. The Radcliffe Committee was appointed to (2014) (a) solve the problem of minorities in India (b) given effect to the Independence Bill (c) delimit the boundaries between India and Pakistan (d) enquire into the riots in East Bengal.

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert • Regulating Act of 1773 had numerous deficiencies. Firstly, the act rendered the Governor General powerless before his colleagues because he had no veto power. Secondly, the provisions regarding the Supreme Court at Fort Williams were vague and defective. The law did not mention anything regarding the jurisdiction of the Supreme Court. It also did not demarcate the lines between powers of Governor and Supreme Court. The actions of the servants of the company were brought under the Supreme Court but this again tussle between Governor General and the court. Thirdly, the presidencies of Bombay and Madras continued to act on their discretion on pretext of emergencies. They also continued wars and alliances without caring in the least bit to Presidency of Bengal. Lastly, there was nothing in the act which could address the people of India, who were paying revenue to the company but now were dying in starvation in Bengal, Bihar and Orissa. • Some of these problems were addressed in an amendment of the Regulating Act in the form of Amending Act 1781 and other acts which followed it. • The Amending Act of 1781 reduced the powers of Supreme Court much below Governor General in Council. • The Pitts India Act 1784 gave veto power to the Governor General and the presidencies were made subordinate to the Governor General.

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert 5. It ended the Company's monopoly over trade with China and in tea. 6. It instructed the government of India to abolish slavery. But slavery was abolished in 1843. 7. In a step towards codifying the laws, the Governor-General- in-Council was directed under the Charter act of 1833, to set up an Indian law Commission. India‟s first law commission was set up under Charter act of 1833 and Lord Macaulay was made its Chairman.

Q1. The Congress ministries resigned in the seven provinces in 1939, because: (2012) (a) The Congress could not form ministries in the other four provinces. (b) Emergence of a „left wing‟ in the Congress made the working of the ministries impossible. (c) There were widespread communal disturbances in their provinces. (d) None of the statements (a), (b) and (c) given above is correct

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Q2. 2008 Assertion (A): The Congress Ministries in all the provinces resigned in the year 1939. Reason (R): The Congress did not accept the decision of the Viceroy to declare war against Germany in the context of the Second World War.

• 6 questions so far • Except one all questions from Cripps Mission/proposals • A mix of Factual and fundamental questions

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Q1. The plan of Sir Stafford Cripps envisaged that after the Second World War (2016) (a) India should be granted complete independence (b) India should be partitioned into two before granting independence (c) India should be made a republic with the condition that she will join the Commonwealth (d) India should be given Dominion status

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Q2. Who among the following were official Congress negotiations with Cripps Mission? (2010) (a) Mahatma Gandhi and Sardar Patel (b) Acharya J. B. Kripalani and C. Rajagopalachari (c) Pandit Nehru and Maulana Azad (d) Dr. Rajendra Prasad and Rafi Ahmed Kidwai

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Q3. Who of the following Prime Ministers sent Cripps Mission to India?(2009) (a) James Ramsay MacDonald (b) Stanley Baldwin (c) Nevile Chamberlain (d) Winston Churchill

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Q4. Consider the following statements: (2009) The Cripps Proposals include the provision for 1. Full independence for India 2. Creation of Constitution making body. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Q5. Which one of the following suggested the reconstitution of the Viceroy‟s Executive Council in which all the portfolios including that of War Members were to be held by the Indian leaders?(2008) (a) Simon Commission (b) Simla Comference (c) Cripps Proposal (d) Cabinet Mission

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Q6. With reference to the Cabinet Mission, which of the following statements is/are correct?(2015) 1. It recommended a federal government. 2. It enlarged the powers of the Indian courts. 3. It provided for more Indians in the ICS. Select the correct answer using the code given below. (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 (c) 1 and 3 (d) None

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert August Offer, 1940 • When the Congress ministries in the Provinces resigned, the British arose and wanted to get support of the Congress for war. • In March 1940, Congress met at Ramgarh in Bihar in its annual session, presided by Abul Kalam Azad . The Congress passed a resolution offering the British Government support in war, if a provisional National Government is setup at Centre. • This was responded by Lord Linlithgow in the sort of a proposal which is called August Offer. The august Offer turned down the demand of the Congress to set up a national Government at the center but proposed the following:  After the war, a representative “Constitution Making Body” shall be appointed immediately after the war mainly by Indians.  The number of the Indians in the Viceroy‟s Executive council will be increased.  A war advisory Council would be set up.  The Congress did not approve the August Offer. Jawahar Lal Nehru said that the whole idea was “dead and doornail”. The Muslim League said that it will not be satisfied with anything short of partition of India.

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Cripps Mission/proposals, 1942: In March 1942, a mission headed by Stafford Cripps was sent to India with constitutional proposals to seek India's support for World War II. • Its main proposal was setup of an Indian Union with dominion status and formation of a constituent assembly after war. • According to proposal of Cripps Mission, the making of the constitution was to be solely in Indian hands. • After the end of the war, a constituent assembly would be convened to frame a new constitution. Members of this assembly would be partly elected by the provincial assemblies through proportional representation and partly nominated by the princes. • The British Government would accept the new constitution subject to two conditions: (i) any province not willing to join the Union could have a separate constitution and form a separate Union, and (ii) the new constitution- making body and the British Government would negotiate a treaty to effect the transfer of power and to safeguard racial and religious minorities. • In the meantime, defence of India would remain in British hands and the governor-general‟s powers would remain intact. • It allowed provinces to have separate constitution • Also, it allowed Free India to withdraw from the commonwealth i.e. India would be free to decide its relations with the Commonwealth and free to participate in the United Nations and other international bodies. • Jawaharlal Nehru and Maulana Azad were the official negotiators for the Indian National Congress.

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert • Rajagopalachari Formula - In March 1944, veteran Congress leader C. Rajagopalachari prepared a formula for Congress-League cooperation on demand for independence and constitutional framework.It received the full approval of Gandhiji.

The main points of the C.R. Plan were:  League to cooperate with Congress in forming provisional government at centre.  After the end of the war, the entire population of the muslim-majority areas in the North-West and North- East India to decide by a plebiscite, whether or not to form a separate state.  In case of acceptance of partition, agreement to be made jointly for safeguarding defence, commerce, communications, etc.  The above terms to be operative only if England transferred full powers to India.

Jinnah‟s Objections  Jinnah wanted the Congress to accept the two-nation theory.  He wanted only the Muslims of North-West and North-East to vote in the plebiscite and not the entire population.  He also opposed the idea of a common centre. Hence, while the Congress was ready to cooperate with the League for the independence of the Indian Union, the League did not care for independence of the Union. It was only interested in a separate nation.

Desai-Liaqat Plan Background: Gandhiji was convinced that the British rulers would not grant independence to India unless and until the Congress and Muslim League reach some conclusion on the future of the Country or the immediate formation of the Interim National Government.

Hence, Gandhi directed Bhulabhai Desai to make another attempt to appease the league leaders and find a way out of the 1942-45 political deadlocks. Desai being the leader of the Congress in the Central Assembly and a friend of Liaquat Ali (Leader of Muslim League), met him in January 1945 gave him proposals for the formation of Interim Government at centre.

After Desai‟s declaration, Liaqat Ali published the list of an agreement which given below:  an equal number of persons nominated by the Congress & League in the central legislature  20% reserved seats for minorities. The proposals were not formally endorsed either by the Congress or the League.

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Wavell Plan - Lord Wavell became the Viceroy of India in 1943 succeeding Lord Linlithgow. In June 1945, he announced his proposals to break the constitutional deadlock in India. This was called the Wavell Plan. (The deadlock was because the Congress wanted a united India whereas the Muslim League wanted partition.) • The Viceroy‟s Executive Council was to have all Indian members except the Viceroy himself and the Commander-in-Chief. • The council was to have a „balanced representation‟ of all Indians including „caste-Hindus‟, Muslims, Depressed Classes, Sikhs, etc. Muslims were given 6 out of 14 members which accounted for more than their share of the population (25%). • The Viceroy/Governor-General would still have the power of veto but its use would be minimal. • The foreign affairs portfolio would be transferred from the Governor-General to an Indian member. • Defence would be handled by a British general until the full transfer of power was made. • A conference would be convened by the Viceroy to get a list of all the members recommended to the Council from all parties concerned. In case a joint list was not agreed upon, separate lists would be taken from the parties. This was to be the Shimla Conference.If this plan worked, similar councils would be formed in all provinces comprising of local leaders.

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Shimla Conference : Lord Wavell invited 21 political leaders including Mahatma Gandhi and M A Jinnah to Shimla, the summer capital of British India to discuss the Wavell Plan. It took place on June 25, 1945. • The conference was a failure because the League and the Congress could not settle their differences.

• Jinnah insisted that only League members could be the Muslim representatives in the Council, and opposed to the Congress nominating Muslim members. This was because Jinnah wanted the League to be the sole representative of Muslims in India. The Congress would never agree to this demand.

• In the Wavell Plan, there were 6 Muslim representatives out of 14 members, which was more than the Muslim share of population. Despite this, the League wanted the power of veto to any constitutional proposal which it believed was not in its interest. The Congress opposed this unreasonable demand also.

• After this, the war ended and a new Labour government was elected in Britain. This new government was intent on giving independence to India without much delay and sent the Cabinet Mission with that purpose.

• 7 questions so far • Basic and fundamental

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Q1. The `Swadeshi‟ and „Boycott‟ were adopted as methods of struggle for the first time during the (2016) (a) agitation against the Partition of Bengal (b) Home Rule Movement (c) Non-Cooperation Movement (d) visit of the Simon Commission to India

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Q2. Four resolutions were passed at the famous Calcutta session of Indian National Congress in 1906. The question of either retention OR of rejection of these four resolutions became the cause of a split in Congress at the next Congress session held in Surat in 1907. Which one of the following was not one of those resolutions? (2010) (a) Annulment of partition of Bengal (b) Boycott (c) National education (d) Swadeshi

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Q3. What was the main reason for the split in the Indian National Congress at Surat in 1907?(2016) (a) Introduction of communalism into Indian politics by Lord Minto (b) Extremists‟ lack of faith in the capacity of the moderates to negotiate with the British Government (c) Foundation of Muslim League (d) Aurobindo Ghosh‟s inability to be elected as the President of the Indian National Congress

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Q4. Which one of the following movements has contributed to a split in the Indian National Congress resulting in the emergence of 'moderates' and 'extremists'? (2015) (a) Swadeshi Movement (b) Quit India Movement (c) Non-Cooperation Movement (d) Civil Disobedience Movement

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Q5. The Partition of Bengal made by Lord Curzon in 1905 lasted until (2014) (a) The First World War when Indian troops were needed by the British and the partition was ended. (b) King George V abrogated Curzon's Act as the Royal Durbar in Delhi in 1911 (c) Gandhiji launched his Civil Disobedience Movement. (d) The Partition of India in 1947 when East Bengal became East Pakistan.

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Q6. What was the immediate cause for the launch of the Swadeshi movement? (2010) (a) The partition of Bengal done by Lord Curzon (b) A sentence of 18 months rigorous imprisonment imposed on Lokmanya Tilak (c) The arrest and deportation of Lala Lajpat Rai and Ajit Singh; and passing of the Punjab Colonization Bill (d) Death sentence pronounced on the Chapekar brothers

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Q7. In the context of the Indian freedom struggle 16th October 1905 is well known for which one of the following reasons? (2009) (a) The formal proclamation of Swadeshi Movement was made in Calcutta town hall (b) Partition of Bengal took effect (c) Dadabhai Naoroji declared that the goal of Indian National Congress was Swaraj (d) Lokmanya Tilak started Swadeshi Movement in Poona

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert • The decision to effect the Partition of Bengalwas announced in July 1905 by the Viceroy of India, Lord Curzon. The partition took place on 16 October 1905 and separated the largely Muslim eastern areas (Eastern Bengal & Assam) from the largely Hindu western areas.

• Congress reaction : firmly opposed the decision to partition Bengal in 1905. They saw the act of partition as a challenge to Indian nationalism and not merely an administrative measure.; They saw it as a deliberate attempt to weaken nationalism in Bengal and divide the bengalis as it was a big blow to bengali culture and language.

• Anti-Partition Movement - It was a massive and spontaneous movement and had cross sectional support.

• Tilak in Maharashtra, Lala Lajpat Rai in Punjab, Sayed Haider Raza in Delhi and Chidambaram Pillai in Madras soon joined the movement and gave it national character.

• Indian National Congress did not remain unaffected. In 1905, Banaras session INC supported the movement.

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert • The Indian National Congress took up the Swadeshi call and the Banaras Session, 1905, presided over by G.K. Gokhale, supporter the Swadeshi and Boycott Movement for Bengal.

• The Exremists led by Tilak, Bipin Chandra Pal, Lajpat Rai and Aurobindo Ghosh were, however, in favour of extending the movement to the rest of India and carrying it beyond the programme of just Swadeshi and boycott to a full fledged political mass struggle .The Moderates, by and large, were not as yet willing to go that far.

• In 1906, however, the Indian National Congress at its Calcutta Session, presided over by Dadabhai Naoroji, took a major step forward and declared that the goal of the Indian National Congress was „self- government or Swaraj like that of the United Kingdom or the Colonies.‟ In this Session the congress was compelled by the extremists to adopt following These were as follows: 1.Resolution on Partition of Bengal 2. Resolution of Self Government (Swaraj)3. Resolution on Swadeshi 4. Resolution on Boycott.

• Role of Press / Journals during Swadeshi Movt.  The Hitabadi led by Dwijendernath Tagore  Sanjibani led by Krishan Kumar Mitra (first to give the idea of boycott)  Bengalee by Surenderanath Banerjee. • Other newspapers/journals were - Motilal Ghosh's Amrit Bazar Patrika; Brahm Bandhav Upadhyay's Sandhya (it was the most outspoken newspaper); Aurbindo Ghosh's Vande Mataram, 1907 (gave the concept of passive resistance) .

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Annulment of Partition of Bengal • It was decided in 1911(Delhi Durbar) under the viceroyship of Lord Hardinge. • Lord Minto - II was appointed the Viceroy of India in the year 1905 after the resignation of Lord Curzon and served office till 1910. • It was decided to annul the partition of Bengal in 1911 mainly to curb the menace of revolutionary terrorism. • The annulment came as a rude shock to the Muslim political elite. • It was decided to shift the capital to Delhi as a sop to the Muslims, as it was associated with Muslim glory, but the Muslims were not pleased. • Bihar and Orissa were taken out of Bengal and Assam was made a separate province.

• 15 Questions so far • Mostly Fundamental and Basic questions

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Q1. Consider the following statements: (2010) 1. Dr. Rajendra Prasad persuaded Mahatma Gandhi to come to Champaran to investigate the problem of peasants. 2. Acharya J.B. Kriplani was one of Mahatma Gandhi‟s colleagues in his Champaran investigation. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Champaran Satyagraha, 1917- Ist Act of Civil Disobedience in India • Gandhiji was requested by Rajkumar Shukla to look into the problems of indigo cultivators of Champaran in Bihar. Accompanied by Babu Rajendra Prasad, Mazharul-Huq, J.B. Kripalani, and Mahadev Desai , he eached Champaran • The European planters had been forcing the peasants to grow indigo on 3/20 of the total land (called tinkathia system). When towards the end of the nineteenth century German synthetic dyes replaced indigo, the European planters demanded high rents and illegal dues from the peasants in order to maximise their profits before the peasants could shift to other crops. Besides, the peasants were forced to sell the produce at prices fixed by the Europeans. • Government appointed a committee (Champaran Agrarian Committee) to look into the matter and Gandhiji was nominated as a member. As a compromise with the planters, Gandhiji agreed that only 25 per cent of the money taken should be compensated. • The Committee made its report on 3rd October, 1917 it ultimately proved the success of the movement and the leadership of Gandhi.  It recommended the abolition of the tinkathia system and gave freedom to the peasants to grow whatever crop they chose.  It denounced the payment by planters for indigo by the area sown and not actual return.  The reduction of rent by 25/26% was approved  no further payment of principal or interest on this account to be levied on the peasants. All additional levies and perquisites as well as fines were held illegal  The thekadari or village-contracting system by which the planters gained zamindari rights over peasants in villages outside their plantations was to be phased out.  Rights in hides were to belong to the peasant owners of the animals, not the planters.

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Ahmedabad Mill Strike, 1918: Ist HUNGER STRIKE • There was a situation of dispute between the Mill owners and workers on the question of discontinuation of Plague Bonus once the epidemic had passed but the workers insisted it stay. The workers demanded a 50% wage hike. The Mill Owners were willing to give only 20% wage • While Gandhiji was negotiating with the millowners, he advised the workers to go on strike and to demand 35% increase in wages. Having advised the strikers to depend upon their conscience, Gandhiji himself went on a "fast unto death" to strengthen the workers resolved to continue the strike. • The mill owners gave away and a settlement was reached after 21 days of strike. The millowners agreed to submit the whole issue to a tribunal. • The strike was withdrawn and retrieval later awarded the 35% increase that the workers had demanded. • Ambalal Sarabhai's sister, Anasuya Behn, was one of the main lieutenants of Gandhiji in this struggle in which her brother and Gandhiji's friend was one of the main advisories. • This movement went a long way in mobilizing and organising the working classes in Ahemdabad, paving the way for foundation of the Textile Labour Association in February, 1920. 'Motaben' Anasuya Sarabhai had organized the textile labour force under one umbrella organization mentored by Mahatma Gandhi.

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Q2. What was the reason for Mahatma Gandhi to organize a satyagraha on behalf of the peasants of Kheda? (2011) 1. The Administration did not suspend the land revenue collection in spite of a drought 2. The Administration proposed to introduce Permanent Settlement in Gujarat. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Kheda Satyagraha : Ist Non-Cooperation Act • because of drought in 1918, the crops failed in Kheda district of Gujarat. According to Revenue Code, if the yield was less than one-fourth the normal produce, the farmers were entitled to remission. The authorities refused to grant remission. • The British government insisted that the farmers not only pay full taxes but also pay the 23% increase stated to take effect that very year but the farmers demanded the exemption of land revenue due to the famine conditions. • Gandhiji supported the peasants' cause and asked them to withhold revenue. The authorities, not willing to openly concede the peasants' demand, issued secret instructions that only those who could afford to pay should pay. • Many young nationalists such as Sardar Patel and Indul Yagnik supported Gandhiji. • The government finally sought to foster an honorable agreement for both parties. the tax for the year in question and the next would be suspended and the increase in rate reduced, while the confiscated property be returned.

Q3. With reference to Rowlatt Satyagraha, which of the following statements is/are correct ? (2015) 1. The Rowlatt Act was based on the recommendations of the 'Sedition Committee'. 2. In Rowlatt Satyagraha, Gandhiji tried to utilize the Home Rule League. 3. Demonstrations against the arrival of Simon Commission coincided with Rowlatt Satyagraha. Select the correct answer using the codes given below. (a) 1 only (b) 1 and 2 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Q4. The Rowlatt Act aimed at (2012) (a) Compulsory economic support to war efforts (b) Imprisonment without trial and summary procedures for trial (c) Suppression of the Khilafat Movement. (d) Imposition of restrictions on freedom of the press.

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Q5. During the Indian Freedom Struggle, why did Rowlatt Act arouse popular indignation?(2009) (a) It curtailed the freedom of religion (b) It suppressed the Indian traditional education (c) It authorized the government to imprison people without trial (d) It curbed the trade union activities

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Q6. Who was the Viceroy of India when the Rowlatt Act was passed? (a) Lord Irwin (b) Lord Reading (c) Lord Chelmsford (d) Lord Wavell

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Rowlatt Satyagraha: Ist Mass Strike • On the basis of the finding of the Rowlatt Committee aka Sedition Committee Rowlatt bill was introduced in the Imperial Legislative Council aka “Anarchical and Revolutionary Crimes Act of 1919, in March 1919.

• This act authorized the government to imprison for a maximum period of two years, without trial, any person suspected of terrorism. The act provided speedy trial of the offenses by a special cell that consisted of 3 High Court Judges. There was no court of appeal above that panel. This panel could also accept the evidences which were not even acceptable in the Indian Evidences Act.

• This act gave a new direction to the movement. Gandhi organized a mass protest at all India level. By March 23, 1919, the volunteers started courting arrests. Gandhiji suggested that a Satyagraha to be launched against the Rowlatt Act. A Satyagraha Sabha was formed in 1919. • The three organizations viz, the Home Rule league, Muslim league and the Satyagraha Sabha along with some other small organizations coordinated and organized the biggest Satyagraha ever.

• On April 6, 1919, an all India strike was organized. There was mob violence in Bombay, Ahmadabad and all other major towns. The Satyagraha lost momentum with the Jallianwala Bagh tragedy on April 13, 1919.

• The term 'Himalayan Blunder' was used in the context of failure of Rowlatt Act Satyagraha.

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Q7. Who of the following organized a march on the Tanjore coast to break the Salt Law in April 1930?(2015) (a) V.O. Chidambaram Pillai (b) C. Rajagopalachari (c) K. Kamaraj (d) Annie Besant

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Q8. Which one of the following began with the Dandi March?(2009) (a) Home Rule Movement (b) Non-Cooperation Movement (c) Civil Disobedience Movement (d) Quit India Movement

• In March 1930, Gandhiji wrote in the newspaper, Young India, that he might suspend his civil disobedience or law-breaking movement if the government accepted his eleven-point demands. But Lord Irwin‟s government did not respond. So, Gandhiji started the Civil Disobedience Movement.

• Eleven –point demands include (1) Prohibit intoxicants, (2) Change the ratio between the rupee and the sterling, (3) Reduce the rate of land revenue, (4) Abolition of salt tax, (5) Reduce the military expenditure, (6) Reduce expenditure on civil administration, (7) Impose custom duty on foreign cloth, (8) Accept the Postal Reservation Bill, (9) Abolish the CID department, (10) Release all political prisoners, and (11)Issue licenses of arms to citizens for self-protection.

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert • But Lord Irwin‟s government did not respond. So, Gandhiji started the Civil Disobedience Movement. • It was started with Dandi March (also Salt march, Salt satyagraha) by Mahatma Gandhi on 12th March, 1930 from the Sabarmati Ashram to “Dandi” on the Gujarat coast. • It was a distance of 200 miles. At Dandi a few day s later they violated the salt laws by making salt from sea-water. Thus, began the civil disobedience Movement. • The British government resorted to cruel repression in spite of the total non-violent conduct of the movement by issuing more than a dozen ordinances. • The Indian National Congress was declared an illegal body and Gandhi was arrested on 5 May, 1930. The arrest of Gandhi infuriated the masses and they voluntarily expressed their solidarity with the movement. • While the civil disobedience was going on, the British government convened the Round Table Conferences. Gandhi did not attend the first one held in 1930. • Gandhi agreed to attend the Second Round Table Conference of 1931 and in this background only Gandhi-Irwin pact was concluded, which was variously described as a „truce‟ and a „provisional settlement‟.

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert • Gandhi-Irwin Pact 5 March 1931. (a) To withdraw all ordinances and pending prosecutions, (b) To release all political prisoners except those who were guilty of violence, (c) To restore the confiscated property of the Satyagrahis, (d) To permit peaceful picketing of liquor, opium and foreign cloth shops, and (e) To permit the collection or manufacture of salt, free of duty, by persons residing within a specific distance of the sea shore, (f) The Congress agreed not to press for investigation into police excess, (g) To suspend the civil disobedience movement, and (h) To stop boycott and to participate in the Second Round Table Conference.

In 1931 certain events – coming to power of conservatives, replacement of the Viceroy, and execution of Bhagat Singh – created an atmosphere of dejection in Gandhi and other younger Indian leaders. The Congress decided to restart the movement in January 1932.

As usual, the British government took steps to suppress the movement and in the meanwhile the British Prime Minister announced communal award in 1932. The civil disobedience movement continued up to 1934 and it was suspended in that year.

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Salt Satyagraha(Personalities) • Bardoli Satyagraha – Sardar Patel- No Tax campaign – Gandhiji support through his writings in „Young India‟.

• Kamaladevi Chattopadhyay was an Indian social reformer and freedom fighter. She persuaded Gandhiji not to restrict the salt agitation to men alone. She courted arrest by breaking salt law and liquor law.

• Sarojini Naidu, Manilal Imam Saheb– Dharsana Salt Satyagraha

• C. Rajagopalachari – Vedaranayam Salt march - took place in April 1930 It began at Trichinopoly (now Tiruchirappalli) and ended in Vedaranyam, a small coastal town in Tanjore District.

• Payyanur Salt Satyagraha: On April 21, 1930, the volunteers under the leadership of K. Kelappan, the „Kerala Gandhi‟, collected salty sand with coconut shells in gunny bags and distilled it and sold its small packets.

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Q9. In the “Individual Satyagraha”, Vinoba Bhave was chosen as the first Satyagrahi. Who was the second?(2009) (a) Dr. Rajendra Prasad (b) Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru (c) C. Rajagopalachari (d) Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert • Individual Satyagraha : In 1940, in response to August Offer, Gandhiji decided to initiate a limited satyagraha on an individual basis by a few selected individuals in every locality, that is, Individual Satyagraha. • The demand of the satyagrahi would be the freedom of speech against the war through an anti-war declaration. • If the Government did not arrest the satyagrahi, he or she would not only repeat it but move into villages and start a march towards Delhi, thus precipitating a movement which came to be known as the "Delhi Chalo Movement". • Vinoba Bhave was the first to offer the satyagraha and Nehru, the second and third was Brahma Datt, one of the inmates of the Gandhi‟s Ashram.

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Q10. Quit India Movement was launched in response to (2013) (a) Cabinet Mission Plan (b) Cripps Proposals (c) Simon Commission Report (d) Wavell Plan

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Q11 Which one of the following observations is not true about the Quit India Movement of 1942?(2011) (a) It was a non-violent movement (b) It was led by Mahatma Gandhi (c) It was a spontaneous movement (d) It did not attract the labour class in general

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Q12. With reference to Indian freedom struggle, Usha Mehta is well-known for (2011) (a) Running the secret Congress Radio in the wake of Quit India Movement (b) Participating in the second round Table Conference (c) Leading a contingent of Indian National Army (d) Assisting in the formation of Interim Government under Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Q13. After Quit India Movement, C. Rajagopalachari issued a pamphlet entitled “The Way Out”. Which one of the following was a proposal in this pamphlet? (2010) (a) The establishment of a “War Advisory Council” composed of representatives of British India and the Indian States (b) reconstitution of the Central Executive Council in such a way that that all its members, except the Governor General and the Commander – in – Chief should be Indian leaders (c) Fresh elections to the Central and Provincial Legislatures to be held at the end of 1945 and the Constitutional making body to be convened as soon as possible (d) A solution for the constitutional deadlock

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Q14. With which one of the following movements is the slogan “Do or Die” associated? (2009) (a) Swadeshi Movement (b) Non-Cooperation Movement (c) Civil Disobedience Movement (d) Quit India Movement

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Q15. During the freedom struggle, Aruna Asaf Ali was a major woman organizer of underground activity in: (2009) (a) Civil Disobedience Movement (b) Non-Cooperation Movement (c) Quit India Movement (d) Swadeshi Movement

• Reason – failure of Cripps Mission • Activities under QIM- Underground activities, Parallel Govt, Karnataka method. • Features of QIM

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Reasons for launching Quit India Movement:  Failure of Cripps Mission in April 1942 made clear that Britain was determined to continue India's unwilling partnership in the War effort.  Popular discontent, a product of rising prices and war-time shortages was mounting  The news of Allied reverses and British withdrawals from South-East Asia and Burma affirmed an imminent British collapse • On 14th July 1942, the Congress Working Committee at Wardha had passed a resolution demanding complete independence from the British government. • On August 8, 1942, Mahatma Gandhi made a Do or Die call in his Quit India speech which was delivered in Bombay at the Gowalia Tank Maidan also known as August Kranti Maidan. • Several national leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, Abdul Kalam Azad, Jawaharlal Nehru and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel were arrested. • The Congress was declared an unlawful association, leaders were arrested and its offices all over the country were raided and their funds were frozen. • The first half of the movement was peaceful with demonstrations and processions. The peaceful protest was carried till Mahatma Gandhi‟s release. • The second half of the movement was violent with raids and setting fire at post offices, government buildings and railway stations. Lord Linlithgow adopted the policy of violence. • The Viceroy‟s Council of Muslims, Communist Party and Americans supported Britishers. • After the arrest of major leaders, young Aruna Asaf Ali presided over the AICC session.

Q1. Mahatma Gandhi underlook fast unto death in 1932, mainly because (2012) (a) Round Table Conference failed to satisfy Indian political aspirations. (b) Congress and Muslim League had differences of opinion. (c) Ramsay Macdonald announced the Communal Award. (d) None of the statements (a), (b) and (c) given above is correct in this context

• 2 questions so far • Basic and fundamental

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Q1. The demand for the Tebhaga Peasant Movement in Bengal was for (2013) (a) the reduction of the share of the landlords from one-half of the crop to one-third (b) the grant of ownership of land to peasants as they were the actual cultivators of the land. (c) the uprooting of Zamindari system and the end of serfdom (d) writing off all peasant debts

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert • The Tebhaga movement was an independence campaign led by the Bengal Provincial Kisan Sabha (peasants front of Communist Party of India) in 1946–47. • At that time sharecropping peasants (essentially, tenants) had to give half of their harvest to the owners of the land. • The demand of the Tebhaga (sharing by thirds) movement was to reduce the share given to landlords to one third. • The central slogan was "nij khamare dhan tolo", that is, sharecroppers taking the paddy to their own threshing floor / godowns (khamars) and not to the jotedar's house, who rented land to bargadars. • The movement received a great boost in late January 1947 when the Muslim League Ministry led by Suhrawardy published the Bengal Bargadars Temporary Regulation Bill in the Calcutta Gazette on 22 January 1947. Encouraged by the fact that the demand for tebhaga could no longer be called illegal, peasants in hitherto untouched villages and areas joined the struggle. • Clashes developed btw peasants and jotedars when the peasants tried to remove the paddy already stored in the jotedars‟ khamars to their own.(Violent Movt.) • The jotedars appealed to the Government, and the police came in to suppress the peasants. And Finally the movt was supressed .

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert • The Muslim League Ministry failed to pursue the bill in the Assembly and it was only in 1950 that the Congress Ministry passed a Bargadars Bill which incorporated, in substance, the demands of the movement. • Initially, the base was among the Rajbansi Kshatriya peasants, but it soon spread to Muslims, Hajongs, Santhals and Oraons. • Among the important leaders of this movement were Krishnobinode Ray, Abani Lahiri, Sunil Sen, Bhowani Sen, Moni Singh, Ananta Singh, Bhibuti Guha, Ajit Ray, Sushil Sen, Samar Ganguli, and Gurudas Talukdar

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Q2. Which amongst the following provided a common factor for tribal insurrection in India in the 19th century?(2011) (a) Introduction of a new system of land revenue and taxation of tribal products (b) Influence of foreign religious missionaries in tribal areas (c) Rise of a large number of money lenders, traders and revenue farmers as middlemen in tribal areas (d) The complete disruption of the old agrarian order of the tribal communities

Q1. Consider the following statements: (2010) 1. The “Bombay Manifesto” signed in 1936 openly opposed the preaching of socialist ideals. 2. It evoked support from a large section of business community from all across India. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2

Q1. With reference to Congress Socialist Party, consider the following statements : (2015) 1. It advocated the boycott of British goods and evasion of taxes. 2. It wanted to establish the dictatorship of proletariat. 3. It advocated separate electorate for minorities and oppressed classes. Which of the statements given above is/are correct ? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 3 only (c) 1, 2 and 3 (d) None

• The Congress Socialist Party was launched in 1934, to work within the Congress, to strengthen it, to mould and shape its policies.

• It was formed by of Jayaprakash Narayan, Acharya Narendra Dev and Minoo Masani in Bombay with Acharya Narendra Dev as President and Jay Prakash Narayan as General Secretary.

• Their ideological inspiration came from Marxism and Democratic Socialism and they stood for anti-Imperialism, nationalism and Socialism; anti-landlordism , the organization of workers and peasants in trade unions and kisan sabhas, the acceptance of a socialist vision of independent India and of the socialist programme of the economic and social transformation of society.

• They were to give the Congress and the national movement a socialist direction; and that to achieve this objective they must organize the workers and peasants in their class organizations, wage struggles for their economic demands and make them the social base of the national struggle. They preferred methods adopted by Congress.

• The "Meerut Thesis of 1935" of the Congress Socialist Party (CSP) is related to developing leadership of revolutionary socialism within the Congress.

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert • Communist Party of India : Seven Indians, headed by M.N. Roy, met at Tashkent in October 1920 and set up a Communist Party of India. • The formation of the party in Tashkent was followed by initiatives by the emigrants to connect with activists such as Muzaffar Ahmad, S. A. Dange, Singaravelu Chettier and others who were inspired by the Bolshevik Revolution of 1917 and were turning towards Marxist-Leninist politics and organising small communist groups in Bombay, Calcutta, Madras, Lahore and Kanpur in the course of late 1921 and 1922. • Most of these groups came together at Kanpur in December 1925 and founded an all-India organization under the name the Communist Party of India (CPI). After some time, S.V. Ghate emerged as the general secretary of the party. • The CPI called upon all its members to enroll themselves as members of the Congress, form a strong left-wing in all its organs, cooperate with all other radical nationalists, and make an effort to transform the Congress into a more radical mass-based organization • The main form of political work by the early Communists was to organize peasants‟ and workers‟ parties and work through them.

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert • The first such organization was the Labour-Swaraj Party of the Indian National Congress organized by Muzaffar Ahmed, Qazi Nazrul Islam, Hemanta Kumar Sarkar, and others in Bengal in November 1925. • In late 1926, a Congress Labour Party was formed in Bombay and a Kirti-Kisan Party in Punjab. A Labour Kisan Party of Hindustan had been functioning in Madras since 1923. • By 1928 all of these provincial organizations had been renamed the Workers‟ and Peasants‟ Party (WPP) and knit into an All India party, whose units were also set up in Rajasthan, UP and Delhi. • All Communists were members of this party. • The basic objective of the WPPs was to work within the Congress to give it a more radical orientation and make it „the party of the people‟ and independently organize workers and peasants in class organizations, to enable first the achievement of complete independence and ultimately of socialism. The WPPs grew rapidly and within a short period especially in Bombay. • Moreover, Jawaharlal Nehru and other radical Congressmen welcomed the WPPs‟ efforts to radicalize the Congress. • The WPPs also made rapid progress on the trade union front and played a decisive role in the resurgence of working class struggles during 1927-29 as also in enabling in Communists to gain a strong position in the working class movement

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Leftist Journals/Weeklies • S.A. Dange published a pamphlet Gandhi and Lenin and started the first socialist weekly, The Socialist; • in Bengal, Muzaffar Ahmed brought out Navayug and later founded the Langal in cooperation with the poet NazruI Islam; in Punjab, • Ghulam Hussain and others published Inquilab; • and in Madras, M. Singaravelu founded the Labour-Kisan Gazette.

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert About JL Nehru as a Socialist  In 1928, Jawaharlal joined hands with Subhas to organize the Independence for India League to fight for complete independence and „a socialist revision of the economic structure of society.‟  Nehru, did not favour the creation of an organization independent of or separate from the Congress or making a break with Gandhiji and the right-wing of the Congress.  The task was to influence and transform the Congress as a whole in a socialist direction.  And this could be best achieved by working under its banner and bringing its workers and peasants to play a greater role in its organization.

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert • Bolshevik Party of India was established in 1939 by N. Dutt Mazumdar • the Revolutionary Communist Party was launched by Saumyendranath Tagore in 1942 • the Bolshevik-Leninist Party was anounced in 1941 by a group of Trotskyite revolutionaries like Indra Sen and Ajit Roy. • Each of these was a dissident Communist group and claimed to be the fittest party for leading the 'Indian Revolution.' Most of these parties centred around personalities and became defunct after the central figure disappeared.

Revolutionary Movement

Q1. The Ghadr (Ghadar) was a (2015) (a) revolutionary association of Indians with headquarters at San Francisco. (b) nationalist organization operating from Singapore. (c) militant organisation with headquarters at Berlin (d) Communist movement for India's freedom with headquarters at Tashkent

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert • In 1913, Pacific Coast Hindustan Association was founded by Lala Hardayal with Sohan Singh Bhakna as its president, which was called Ghadar Party. The members of this party were the immigrant Sikhs of US and Canada. • The first issue of The Ghadar, was published from San Francisco on November 1, 1913. Later it got published in Urdu, Punjabi, Hindi and other languages also. • A ship named Komagatamaru, filled with Indian immigrants was turned back from Canada. As the ship returned to India several of its passengers were killed or arrested in a clash with the British police. This incident made the Ghadar Party proclaim war and inspired thousands of Indian immigrants to come back and organise an armed rebellion against British imperialism. However, this movement was crushed.

• Women associated with Ghadar Movt.  Gulab Kaur - Due to economic hardships, Gulab along with her Husband had moved to Phillipines for an onward jounrey to America in 1914. But when a ship, SS Korea, reached Manila for an onward journey to India, Gulab boarded it to work with Ghadarites, including Kartar Singh Sarabha.  Bhikaji Cama, who is best known for founding the Paris Indian Society; On 22 August 1907, Madam Cama had unfurled a self-designed tricolour in Stuttgart town of Germany. This enraged the British. She then later moved to US and worked with the Ghadar activists.  Agnes Smedley , American Journalist and writer; came in close contact with Lala Lajpat Rai, M N Roy, Virendranath Chattopadhyaya, Shailendranath Ghose, Bhagwan Singh and Taraknath Das in US during World War-I and served as a communication volunteer for Indian revolutionaries and oversaw Ghadar party‟s various publications.

Q1. The object of the Butler Committee of 1927 was to (2017) (a) Define the jurisdiction of the Central and Provincial Governments. (b) Define the powers of the Secretary of State for India. (c) Impose censorship on national press. (d) Improve the relationship between the Government of India and the Indian States.

Q1. The Trade Disputes Act of 1929 provided for (a) the participation of workers in the management of industries. (b) arbitrary powers to the management to quell industrial disputes. (c) an intervention by the British Court in the event of a trade dispute. (d) a system of tribunals and a ban on strikes.

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert • Before India's independence ie 1947, The Trade Disputes Act, 1929 was used to settle industrial disputes. • Tribunals: The main object of the 1929 Act was to make provisions for establishment of Courts of Inquiry and Boards of Conciliation. This was carried out with a view to investigate and settle trade disputes. • Strikes: The Act prohibited strikes or lock-outs without notice in public utility services; it also made any strike or lock-out illegal which had any object other than the furtherance of a trade dispute within the trade or industry.

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Q2. Consider the following statements: (2017) 1. The Factories Act, 1881 was passed with a view to fix the wages of industrial workers and to allow the workers to form trade unions. 2. N. M. Lokhande was a pioneer in organizing the labour movement in British India. Which of the above statements is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert • To improve the lot of the factory workers in towns, Ripon passed the first Factory Act in 1881. The Act prohibited the employment of children under the age of seven, limited the number of working hours for children below the age of twelve and required that dangerous machinery should be fenced properly. • There were the following provisions in Second Factory Act of 1891: 1.It increased the minimum age (from 7 to 9 years) and the maximum (from 12 to 14 years) for children. 2.It provided weekly holidays to all workers. 3.It fixed maximum working hours for women at 11 hours per day but working hours of men still left unregulated. 4.The Act is not applied to British-owned tea and coffee plantation.

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert • Narayan Meghaji Lokhande is hailed as the Father of the Trade Union Movement in India due to establishment of the Mill Hand Association in 1884 by him which marked the institutionalization of the labour movement in India. • His struggle resulted in the constitution of the Factory Labour Commission, of which he was made a Member. The work of this Commission led to the enactment of the Factory Act of 1891, which regulated working conditions and gave some special rights to child and female labour

• 4 questions so far • Mix of Factual and Fundamental questions

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Q1. Satya Shodhak Samaj organized (2016) (a) a movement for upliftment of tribals in Bihar (b) a temple-entry movement in Gujarat (c) an anti-caste movement in Maharashtra (d) a peasant movement in Punjab

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Q2. Consider the following : (2016) 1. Calcutta Unitarian Committee 2. Tabernacle of New Dispensation 3. Indian Reform Association

Keshab Chandra Sen is associated with the establishment of which of the above? (a) 1 and 3 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Q3. Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding Brahmo Samaj? (2012) 1. It opposed idolatory. 2. It denied the need for a priestly class for interpreting the religious texts. 3. It popularized the doctrine that the Vedas are infallible. Select the correct answer using the codes given below: (a) 1 only (b) 1 and 2 only (c) 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Q4. In collaboration with David Hare and Alexander Duff, who of the following established Hindu College at Calcutta? (2009) (a) Henry Louis Vivian Derozio (b) Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar (c) Keshab Chandra Sen (d) Raja Rammohan Roy

Raja Ram Mohan Roy & Brahmo Samaj • He was born in Bengal studied Sanskrit literature and Hindu philosophy in Varanasi and Persian, Arabic and Koran in Patna. He was a great scholar Roy who mastered several languages including English, Latin, Greek and Hebrew. • As a social reformer, Rammohan Roy fought relentlessly against social evils like sati, polygamy, child marriage, female infanticide and caste discrimination. • He organised a movement against the inhuman custom of sati and helped William Bentinck to pass a law banning the practice (1829). • earliest propagators of modern Western education. He looked upon it as a major instrument for the spread of modern ideas in the country. • He was associated with the foundation the Hindu College in Calcutta 1817(which later came to be known as the Presidency College). • In addition, he established a Vedanta College where both Indian learning and Western social and physical science courses were offered. • He himself published journals in Bengali, Persian, Hindi and English to educate the public on various current issues. Samvad Kaumudi was the most important journal brought out by him. and the Persian newspaper “Mirat-Ul-Akbar”

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert • Rammohan Roy was a firm believer in internationalism • He argued that ancient Hindu texts the Vedas and the Upanishads upheld the doctrine of monotheism. To prove his point, he translated the Vedas and five Upanishads into Bengali. • In 1849 he wrote Gift to Monotheism in Persian. • Rammohan Roy was a staunch believer in the philosophy of Vedanta (Upanishads) and vigorously defended the Hindu religion and Hindu philosophy from the attack of the missionaries. He only wanted to mould Hinduism into a new cast to suit the requirements of the age. • In 1829 Rammohan Roy founded a new religious society known as the Atmiya Sabha which later on came to be known as the Brahmo Samaj. This religious society was based on the twin pillars of rationalism and the philosophy of the Vedas. • The Brahmo Samaj emphasised human dignity, criticised idolatry and denounced social evils like sati. Brahmo Samaj took no definite stand on the doctrine of Karma and transmigration of soul and left it to individual Brahmos to believe either ways.

• 5 questions so far • Mostly fundamental in nature

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Q1. The 1929 Session of Indian National Congress is on significance in the history of the Freedom Movement because the (2014) (a) attainment of Self-Government was declared as the objective of the Congress. (b) Attainment of Poorna Swaraj was adopted as the goal of the Congress. (c) Non-Cooperation Movement was launched. (d) Decision to participate in the Round Table Conference in London was taken.

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Q2. The Lahore Session of the Indian National Congress (1929) is very important in history, because (2012) 1. The Congress passed a resolution demanding complete independence. 2. The rift between the extremists and moderates was resolved in that Session. 3. A resolution was passed rejecting the two-nation theory in that Session Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 (c) 1 and 3 (d) None of the above

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Q3. Where was the First Session of the Indian National Congress held in December 1885? (2008) (a) Ahmadabad (b) Bombay (c) Calcutta (d) Delhi

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Q4. Consider the following statements : (2015) 1. The first woman President of the Indian National Congress was Sarojini Naidu. 2. The first Muslim President of the Indian National Congress was Badruddin Tyabji. Which of the statements given above is/are correct ? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2

• George Yule was the first European to preside Congress session at Allahabad in 1888 • William Wedderburn only European to preside congress sessions twice at Bombay in 1889 and at Allahabad in 1910. • Alfred Webb presided the Madras session of congress in 1894. • Annie Besant presided a congress session at Calcutta in 1917.

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Q5. For the Karachi session of Indian National Congress in 1931 presided over by Sardar Patel, who drafted the Resolution on Fundamental Rights and Economic Programme? (2010) (a) Mahatma Gandhi (b) Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru (c) Dr. Rajendra Prasad (d) Dr. B.R. Ambedkar

• 2 questions so far • Factual in nature

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Q1. Consider the following pairs: 1. Radhakanta Deb – First President of the British Indian Association 2. Gazulu Lakshminarasu Chetty – Founder of the Madras Mahajana Sabha 3. Surendranath Banerjee – Founder of the Indian Association Which of the above pairs is/are correctly matched? (a) 1 only (b) 1 and 3 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert • The British Indian Association was established on 31 October 1851. The first committee of the association was composed of : Raja Radhakanta Deb – President,Raja Kalikrishna Deb – Vice- President, Debendranath Tagore – secretary, Digambar Mitra – Asst Secretary. • In May 1884., M. Veeraraghavachariar, G. Subramania Iyer and P. Anandacharlu established the Madras Mahajana Sabha. • Gazulu Lakshminarasu Chetty was an Indian merchant, Indian independence activist and political activist who founded the Madras Native Association . • Indian Association was the first declared Nationalist Organization founded in British India by Surendranath Banerjee and Anand Mohan Bose in 1876.

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Other Important Pre-Congress Organisations • The Bangabhasha Prakasika Sabha was formed in 1836 by associates of Rammohun Roy. • Indian League was founded by Sisir Kumar Ghose in 1875 with the object of “stimulating the sense of nationalism amongst the people” and of encouraging political education. • Poona Sarvajanik Sabha was founded in 1867 by Mahadeo Govind Ranade and others, with the object of serving as a bridge between the Government one the one hand and the people on the other. • Bombay Presidency Association was started by Badruddin Tyabji, Pherozshah Mehta and K.T. Telang in 1885. • East Indian Association was organised by Dadabhai Naoroji in 1866 in London to discuss the Indian question and to influence British public men to promote Indian welfare

• 5 questions so far • Basic and Fundamental

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Q1. Who among the following was/were associated with the introduction of Ryotwari Settlement in India during the British Rule? (2017) 1. Lord Cornwallis 2. Alexander Read 3. Thomas Munro Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1 only (b) 1 and 3 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Q2. With reference to Ryotwari Settlement, consider the following statements: (2012) 1. The rent was paid directly by the peasants to the Government. 2. The government gave Pattas to the Ryots. 3. The lands were surveyed and assessed before being taxed. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 1 and 2 only (c) 1, 2 and 3 (d) None

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert RYOTWARI SYSTEM By Sir Thomas Munro and Reed at first in Madras State and then adopted in Bombay, and Assam. • Because of the failure of Permanent Settlement; ni increased revenue ; middlemen-zamindars chowed it down Ryotwari System: Features • It established a direct relation between the landholder and the government. • Farmers could use, sell, mortgage, bequeath, and lease the land as long as they paid their taxes. In other words Ryotwari system gave a proprietary rights upon the landholders. • IF they did not pay taxes, they were evicted • taxes were only fixed in a temporary settlement for a period of thirty years and then revised. • government had retained the right to enhance land revenue whenever it wanted • Provided measures for revenue relief during famines but they were seldom applied in real life situation.

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Ryotwari System: Consequences • Farmers had to pay revenue even during drought and famines, else he would be evicted. • Replacement of large number of zamindars by one giant zamindar called East India Company. • Although ryotwari system aimed for direct Revenue settlement between farmer and the government but over the years, landlordism and tenancy became widespread. Because textile weavers were unemployed= they started working as tenant farmers for other rich farmers. In many districts, more than 2/3 of farmland was leased. • Since Government insisted on cash revenue, farmers resorted to growing cash crops instead of food crops. And cash crop needed more inputs=>more loans and indebtedness. • After end of American civil war, cotton export declined but government didn‟t reduce the revenue. As a result most farmers defaulted on loans and land was transferred from farmers to moneylenders.

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Permanent Settlement: Features • Cornwallis + John Shore. In Bengal + Bihar. 1793 • All the land belonged to the state and was thus at their disposal. • British designated zamindars (local tax collectors) , as owners of the land in their district. This system was adopted in several forms such as Zamindari, Jagirdari, Inamdari, etc. • These zamindars had to collect revenue from farmers and deliver to the British. • Converted Zamindars into landlords. • Revenue amount was fixed at the beginning and remained the same permanently. • Zamindar were given freedom to decide how much to demand from the cultivators. Stiff penalties on defaulters. • there was a provision of keeping a portion of taxes for the zamindar himself.

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert • Zamindar‟s right over land was o Alienable: meaning British could take it away and give it to another Zamindar, if first Zamindar did not meet the Revenue collection „targets‟. o Rentable: meaning Zamindar himself could further outsource his work among more smaller zamindars o Heritable: meaning Zamindar dies, his son/brother etc would get it. • Farmers became tenants. Two types o Tenants-at-will: farmers who cultivated on Zamindar‟s land. They had no rights. They could be evicted as per whims and fancies of Zamindar. o Occupancy Tenants: farmers who owned land. Their occupancy rights were heritable and transferrable and were not tampered with as long as they paid their taxes. • Consequences  Government‟s income declined over the years, Because Revenue was permanently fixed + number of intermediaries kept increasing.  Hence, British learned from the mistake and did not extent this permanent settlement/Zamindari system to the whole of India. Instead, they established Ryotwari and Mahalwari systems in the remaining parts.

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Mahalwari System • Location: Gangetic valley, north-west provinces, parts of central India and Punjab. In North India and Punjab, joint land rights on the village were common. So, British decided to utilize this utilize this traditional structure in a new form known as Mahalwari system. Mahalwari System: Features • unit of assessment was the village. • taxation was imposed on the village community since it had the rights over land. • The village community had to distribute these tax collection targets among the cultivators • Each individual farmer contributed his share in the revenue. • Everyone was thus liable for the others‟ arrears. • Farmers had right to sell or mortgage their property. • The village community did not necessarily mean entire village population. It was a group of elders, notables of high castes. • A village inhabitant, called the lambardar, collected the amounts and gave to the British • British periodically revised tax rates.

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Mahalwari system: Consequences • Since Punjab, Northern India = fertile land. So British wanted to extract maximum Revenue out of this region. Land Revenue was usually 50% to 75% of the produce. • As generations passed- fathers would divide land among sons=> fragmentation=>farms became smaller and smaller and productivity declined. • But still British demanded Revenue in cash. So, farmers had to borrow money to pay taxes in the case of crop failures. • As a result, more and more farms passed into the hands of moneylenders. When farmer failed to repay debt, Moneylender would take away his farm but he has no interest in self-cultivation so he‟d leasing it to another farmer. • Thus, sub-leasing, indebtedness and landlessness became more and more common in Mahalwari region

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Q3. The tendency for increased litigation was visible after the introduction of the land settlement system of Lord Cornwallis in 1793. The reason for this is normally traced to which of the following provisions? (2011) (a) Making Zamindar‟s position stronger vis-à-vis the ryot (b) Making East India Company an overlord of Zamindars. (c) Making judicial system more efficient (d) None of the (a), (b) and (c) above

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Q4. By a regulation in 1793, the District Collector was deprived of his judicial powers and made the collecting agent only. What was the reason for such regulation? (2010) (a) Lord Cornwallis felt that the District Collector‟s efficiency of revenue collection would enormously increase without the burden of other work.

(b) Lord Cornwallis felt that Judicial power should compulsorily be in the hands of Europeans while Indians can be given the job of revenue collection in the districts.

(c) Lord Cornwallis was alarmed at the extent of power concentrated in the District Collector and felt that such absolute power was undesirable in one person.

(d) The judicial work demanded a deep knowledge of India and a good training in law and Lord Cornwallis felt that District Collector should be only a revenue collector.

(a) During the British rule in India three categories of land tenure system, viz. Zamindari, Mahalwari and Ryotwari were introduced (b) Under Zamindari system , land was held by one person or at the most by a few joint owners who were responsible for the payment of land revenue (c) Under the Mahalwari system , the agricultural lands belonged to the Government. (d) Under Ryotwari system, the individual holders had the permanent rights over land and were directly responsible for payment of land revenue

• 3 questions so far • Basic and fundamental

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Q1. Who of the following was/were economic critic/critics of colonialism in India ? (2015) 1. Dadabhai Naoroji 2. G.Subramania Iyer 3. R.C. Dutt Select the correct answer using the codes given below. (a) 1 only (b) 1 and 2 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Q2. Consider the following statements: (2012) The most effective contribution made by Dadabhai Naoroji to the cause of Indian National Movement was that he 1. Exposed the economic exploitation of India by the British. 2. Interpreted the ancient Indian texts and restored the self- confidence of Indians. 3. Stressed the need for eradication of all the social evils before anything else. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Q3. With reference to the period of colonial rule in India, “Home Charges” formed an important part of drain of wealth from India. Which of the following funds constituted “Home Charges”? (2011) 1. Funds used to support the India Office in London. 2. Funds used to pay salaries and pensions of British personnel engaged in India. 3. Funds used for waging wars outside India by the British. Select the correct answer using the codes given below: (a) 1 only (b) 1 and 2 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Home Charges refer to the expenditure incurred in England by the Secretary of State on behalf of India. The main constituents were: •Dividend to the shareholders of the East India Company. •Interest on Public Debt raised abroad. •Expenses on India Office establishment in London. •Pensions and furloughs payments of British officers in the Civil and Military departments in India. •Payments to the British war office. •Store purchases in England. Whereas, Economic drain mainly consists of - 1.All the Home Charges 2.Interests and profits on Foreign Capital Investments 3.Payments with regard to banking, insurance and shipping services in India.

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Q4. Who among the following used the phrase „Un-British‟ to criticize the English colonial control of India? (2008) (a) Anandmohan Bose (b) Badruddhin Tyabji (c) Dadabhai Naoroji (d) Pherozeshah Mehta

• 3 questions so far • Factual in nature

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Q1. With reference to Pondicherry (now Puducherry), consider the following statements: (2010) 1. The first European power to occupy Pondicherry were the Portuguese. 2. The second European power to occupy Pondicherry were the French. 3. The English never occupied Pondicherry. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert  Vasco de Gama started his expedition in 1497 and landed on the Indian soil (Calicut) in May 1498. He was cordially received by Zamorin of Calicut. Vasco de Gama came to India again in 1501 and returned to Portugal in 1503  Portuguese established trading centres at Calicut, Cochin and Cannanore and effectively suppressed the Arab resistence.  De Almedia was appointed as the first viceroy in India in 1505 and he initiated the „Blue Water‟ policy or the mastery of sea by strong naval power.  In 1509, De Almedia was followed by Albuquerque as the second viceroy and he was in that power till 1515.

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert  1510, he captured Goa from the ruler of Bijapur. Thereafter, Goa became the capital of the Portuguese settlements in India. Albuquerque captured Malacca and Ceylon. He also built a fort at Calicut.  Albuquerque encouraged his countrymen to marry Indian women.  The successors of Albuquerque established Portuguese settlements at Daman, Salsette and Bombay on the west coast and at Santhome near Madras and Hugli in Bengal on the east coast.  However, the Portuguese power declined in India by the end of the sixteenth century. They lost all their possessions in India except Goa, Daman and Diu in the next century.

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert • DUTCH - March, 1602, by a charter of the Dutch parliament the Dutch East India Company was formed • The Dutch set up factories at Masulipatam (1605), Pulicat (1610), Surat (1616), Bimilipatam (1641), Karikal (1645), Chinsura (1653), Kasimbazar, Baranagore, Patna, Balasore, Negapatam (all in 1658) and Cochin (1663). • In the 17th century, they supplanted the Portuguese as the most dominant power in European trade with the East, including India. • Pulicat was their centre in India till 1690, after which Negapatam replaced it. • In the middle of the 17th century (1654) the English began to emerge as a formidable colonial power. • • Their final collapse came with their defeat by the English in the battle of Bedera in 1759. • One by one the Dutch lost their settlement to the English and their expulsion from their possessions in India by the British came in 1795.

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert THE DANES Denmark also established trade settlements in India and their settlement at Tranquebar was founded in 1620. Another important Danish settlement in India was Serampore in Bengal. • Serampore was their headquarters in India. • The Danes failed to strengthen themselves in India and they sold all their settlement in India to the British in 1845. • THE FRENCH The French East India Company was formed by Colbert under state patronage in 1664. • The first French factory was established at Surat by Francois Caron in 1668. Later Maracara set up a factory at Masulipatam in 1669. The village developed into Pondicherry and its first governor was Francois Martin. • Also Chandernagore in Bengal was acquired from the Mughal governor in 1690. • The French power in India declined between 1706 and 1720 which led to the reconstitution of the Company in 1720. • The French power in India was revived under Lenoir and Dumas (governors) between 1720 and 1742. • They occupied Mahe in the Malabar, Yanam in Coromandal (both in 1725) and Karikal in Tamil Nadu (1739). • The arrival of Dupleix as French governor in India in 1742 saw the beginning of Anglo French conflict (Carnatic wars) resulting in their final defeat in India.

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert THE ENGLISH The English East India Company (also known as the East India Trading Company, and, after the Treaty of Union, the British East India Company) was formed by a group of merchants known as „Merchant Adventures‟ in 1599. The Company was granted an English Royal Charter, • In 1608, the company decided to open a factory (the name given to a trading depot) at Surat. • The English ambassador Captain Hawkins arrived at Jahangir‟s Court to seek permission for trade with India. But initially it was turned down due to Portuguese intrigue. This convinced the English of the need to overcome Portuguese influence at the Mughal Court if they were to obtain any concessions from the Imperial Government. • The Company achieved a major victory over the Portuguese in the Battle of Swally near Surat in 1612, where two English naval ships under Captain Best defeated a Portuguese naval squadron. • Aambassador Sir Thomas Roe reached the Mughal Court(Jahangir) Roe succeeded in getting an Imperial farman to trade establish factories in all parts of the Mughal Empire. • In 1662 the Portuguese gave the Island of Bombay to King Charles II of England as dowry for marrying a Portuguese Princess. Eventually, the Portuguese lost all their possessions in India except Goa, Daman and Diu. • The Company created trading posts in Surat (where a factory was built in 1612), Madras (1639), Bombay (1668), and Calcutta (1690). • • The major factories became the walled forts of Fort William in Bengal, Fort St George in Madras, and the Bombay Castle. • In 1634, the Mughal emperor extended his hospitality to the English traders to the region of Bengal, and in 1717 completely waived customs duties for the trade.

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Q2. With whose permission did the English set up their first factory in Surat? (2009) (a) Akbar (b) Jahangir (c) Shahjahan (d) Aurangzeb

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Q3. During the time of which Mughal Emperor did the English East India Company establish its first factory in India? (2008) (a) Akbar (b) Jahangir (c) Shahjahan (d) Aurangzeb

• 4 questions so far. • Most important personalities • Factual in nature

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Q1. Annie Besant was (2013) 1. Responsible for starting the Home Rule Movement 2. The founder of the Theosophical Society 3. Once the President of the Indian National Congress Select the correct statement/statements using the codes given below. (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert • Women India Association - Founded on May 7, 1917, by women's rights activists such as Annie Besant, Margaret Cousins, Dr Muthulakshmi Reddy, Sister Subbalaskmi and Sarojini Naidu. • In the early 20th century, WIA battled against the social evils - which ranged from a lack of education of girls, child marriage, and the denial of voting rights.

• The WIA also published a monthly journal in English named 'Stri-Dharma', which was edited by freedom fighter Muthulakshmi Reddy from 1931 to 1940. • WIA was the first women's association in India to present a memorandum to the Round Table Conference on Women's Franchise and her Constitutional rights as well as the initiator of the first All Asian Women's Conference.

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Q2. Which of the following parties were established by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar? (2012) 1. The Peasants and Workers Party of India. 2. All India Scheduled Castes Federation. 3. The Independent Labour Party. Select the correct answer using the codes given below: (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Q3. Mahatma Gandhi said that some of his deepest convictions were reflected in a book titled, “Unto this Last” and the book transformed his life. What was the message from the book that transformed Mahatma Gandhi?(2011) (a) Uplifting the oppressed and poor is the moral responsibility of an educated man (b) The good of individual is contained in the good of all (c) The life of celibacy and spiritual pursuit are essential for a noble life (d) All the statement (a), (b) and (c) are correct in this context

Copyright © 2016 by Vision IAS. [www.visionias.in] Subject, Topic & Expert Q4. Who of the following is the author of a collection of poems called “Golden Threshold”?(2009) (a) Aruna Asaf Ali (b) Annie Besant (c) Sarojini Naidu (d) Vijayalakshmi Pandit

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